In the waters near the Tokara Islands in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan, a magnitude 5.4 earthquake occurred at around 6:30 am on Saturday (July 5th). The earthquake had a depth of about 19 kilometers, with a maximum seismic intensity of “5 strong.” According to data from the Japan Meteorological Agency, this earthquake did not pose a tsunami risk, but there are warnings to be vigilant for possible earthquakes with a maximum seismic intensity of “6 weak” in the near future.
The islands of Akusekijima and Koba Island, belonging to Toshima Village in Kagoshima Prefecture, have been experiencing unusually active seismic activity since June 21st, with nearly 1,200 earthquakes occurring in just two weeks.
The Japan Meteorological Agency pointed out that this earthquake is similar to the previous series of swarm earthquakes, with the epicenter and depth of the earthquake almost identical. This indicates that seismic activity remains active, and there is a need to be particularly alert for earthquakes with a seismic intensity of “6 weak” in the near future.
The Japan Meteorological Agency classifies earthquake intensity into seven levels, with levels 5 and 6 further divided into “5 weak,” “5 strong,” “6 weak,” and “6 strong.”
“6 weak” is described as potentially causing “difficulty standing.” Bricks or window glass may break or fall, and buildings with poor seismic resistance may collapse. Even buildings with strong seismic resistance will suffer damage to walls, pillars, gas pipelines, and water pipes. In some areas, gas supply, drinking water, and electricity may be disrupted, cracks may appear on the ground, and landslides may occur.
As of now, there have been no reports of casualties, building damage, or power outages on Akusekijima, and all 59 residents including 53 island residents and 6 stationed police officers are safe.
Since the 4th, the local government has arranged for the first group of 13 people to evacuate to Kagoshima City by ferry, and the second group is scheduled to depart on the morning of the 6th. The initial evacuation period is set for one week, subject to adjustment based on the subsequent earthquake situation.
Due to the consecutive strong earthquakes and psychological pressure, some island residents have expressed their willingness to evacuate, with local guesthouse operators admitting that “everyone is exhausted.”
Following the earthquake this morning, Toshima Village briefly issued evacuation instructions for all of Akusekijima, requiring residents to move to the school playground on higher ground for shelter, which was lifted at 7:30 am.
The Japan Meteorological Agency urges areas with strong shaking to be vigilant against building collapses and to avoid entering dangerous places.
Regarding the circulating rumors of a major earthquake prediction, the Meteorological Agency emphasizes that it is currently impossible to scientifically predict the time, magnitude, and location of earthquakes. They urge the public to make calm judgments based on scientific knowledge and continue to prepare for disasters.
In December 2021, Akusekijima also experienced a magnitude 5 weak earthquake, prompting some residents to evacuate to Kyushu Island and the southern Amami-Oshima Island.
(Sources: NHK, Kyodo News)